its up to you--you will always get different opinions on this one- some people pre-wash everything (even pre-cuts) some people pre-wash nothing- some people pick & choose- do what you feel is right at the moment- some things to consider...if a fabric is deeply saturated color (deep reds, turquoise, blues, purples) and you are worried about the colors bleeding pre=wash or at least do a color test to make sure before using. if you are concerned about shrinkage---pre=wash; if the fabric feels funky- or smells...pre=wash. if it's flannel and not for a raggy quilt, pre-wash. many people always wash their finished quilts- but that too is a personal choice. as for the steam/no steam...there is a time & place for steam, with starch, with sizing spray....you will learn as you go along when each is good. if you have a fabric that needs a little more than a dry iron is providing...try some steam....if you want to make cutting easier, more accurate- starch your fabric before cutting...put together a few practice blocks---or just cut a few squares of fabric & try each out- dry iron one, then steam one, then starch one....compare- see what you like. there is no right or wrong- there are no fast/hard rules- each quilter does it their own way- that works for them- try everything- then make your own decisions.